What we’re covering
• Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, believed by Israel to be chief architect of the militant group’s deadly October 7, 2023, terror attack that set off the war in Gaza, was killed by Israeli forces, officials said.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sinwar’s death marked “the beginning of the day after Hamas.” He vowed that Israel would continue fighting Hamas in Gaza until all hostages are returned home.
• In a call discussing Sinwar’s death, Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden agreed there was an opportunity to advance the release of the hostages in Gaza. US officials said they would redouble their efforts with mediators to push for a ceasefire deal.
• Despite optimism that Sinwar’s death could bring a Gaza deal closer to fruition, two sources told CNN that Israel’s approach to Iran and its proxies in other countries are seen as “distinct” operations. Israel’s pending retaliation against Iran could come within days, one source said.
